Zoo Move & Groove 5K
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Event details
The Zoo Move & Groove is an evening 5K run held at the Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix, AZ on January 17, 2026. The course passes through Papago Park and finishes inside the zoo during the ZooLights display. Registered participants receive a commemorative race t-shirt, admission to ZooLights and a cup of hot cocoa. The event schedule includes up-close animal encounters before the run and activities at the lakeside area after the finish. Awards are given to the top three finishers. ZooLights features include large light displays, glowing lanterns, a Lake Lights show with a tall floating tree, and paid attractions such as carousel and camel rides.
Registration, packet pickup and fundraising
Registration options listed include on-site and remote choices: general race entry and a "Hibernate at Home" option. Published fees include early and standard registration prices, a day-of rate, and add-ons such as a commemorative medal and extra shirts. Spectator ZooLights admission is listed separately. Packet pick up is available at Road Runner Sports at Tempe Marketplace (43 S McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ) on January 13, 14 and 15 with specified pick-up times; packets not picked up may be available at the race registration tent on race day. Fundraising for the event supports the Phoenix Zoo’s conservation work, including breeding and recovery programs for native Arizona species and a special focus on springsnails. The site lists fundraising milestones with prizes and a current raised amount for the zoo’s fundraising page. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
